RV Battery Disconnect Switch Guide: When to Use, What Loses Power & Staying Safe
Guide to RV battery disconnect switches. Covers when to use, what loses power, and best practices for storage and daily use.
Guide to RV battery disconnect switches. Covers when to use, what loses power, and best practices for storage and daily use.
Most RV heat pumps draw 12-16 amps when running, well within your 30-amp service capacity. However, you'll need to manage other electrical loads to avoid tripping breakers when the heat pump cycles on.
Dual purpose lithium batteries work for coach use but dedicated deep cycle lithium is better for house banks. Dual purpose compromises between starting and cycling. For RV house batteries, deep cycle LiFePO4 provides better value and cycle life.
Your generator likely uses the chassis battery and may have a weak connection or failing starting battery. The main engine alternator charges the chassis battery when running, explaining why the generator starts after running the engine.
Your Progressive Dynamics converter needs either a lithium-compatible charge wizard upgrade (PD9160ALV) or complete replacement with a modern lithium-capable charger like the AIMS or Progressive Dynamics PD9200 series.
V10 surging with air/fuel codes often has cheap fix - vacuum leak, intake gasket, or exhaust leak. Do smoke test or spray test before replacing more expensive parts.
Yes, you're absolutely on the right track - your testing clearly points to a PCM failure in the ground switching circuit for the drivers side coil bank. The fact that you have +12v but no ground pulse during cranking confirms the PCM isn't completing the circuit.
When RV leveling jacks have no power, check the main disconnect breaker, battery connections, and hidden fuses in the engine bay or basement compartments. Battery polarity issues are rare but can cause system failures.
LiFePO4 lithium batteries like the Dyness can replace lead acid batteries, but you'll likely need to upgrade your converter/charger to a lithium-compatible model. The BMS protects the battery from overcharging and provides longer life with faster charging.
Your Dometic 12V compressor refrigerator likely isn't getting adequate power from your batteries. Check battery voltage under load, inspect connections for corrosion, and ensure your battery bank can handle the high amp draw required for the compressor.
The Walker 21470 big truck muffler can provide modest performance gains and deeper sound on a 2003 Ford F53 chassis. Installation is straightforward but requires proper exhaust system modifications and professional welding for best results.
For the Jamboree fridge, check LP gas flow, burner for debris, and 12V power. Ford 460 EFI conversion costs more than the RV is worth - maintain the carburetor instead.
Red fault light with partial power loss often indicates tripped breaker, one leg of 50 amp service failed, or GFCI trip. Check all breakers in main panel and find hidden GFCI outlets. May indicate transfer switch issue if breakers are fine.
RV dual indicators typically show paired readings like fresh vs gray water levels, house vs chassis battery, or current vs set temperature. Check your RV manual or panel manufacturer for specific meanings.
A lithium battery manager relay protects lithium batteries from overcharging by disconnecting them from the alternator when not needed. Installation involves wiring the relay between your alternator/converter and battery bank with proper fusing and control circuits.